"'The principal casting directors working with our director J.J. Abrams in Los Angeles have sent us out on this pretty grueling road trip,' said casting representative Maryellen Aviano. 'As exciting as it is with everyone being so excited about the film, the initial steps are a slow, tedious process, and a meet and greet is like an old-time talent search.'

The five-hour event drew about 2,000 hopefuls — including some who waited in long lines outside in the rain — and was part of a six-city tour in search of fresh faces for two roles in Episode VII, due in theaters in December 2015."

"Some traveled from other cities for the casting call in Troy and were a bit concerned about the tornado watch that's in effect. Amber Bailer of Big Rapids has a three-hour drive home:

"'I didn’t know about the tornado watch until I actually got here ... I heard somebody else talking about it so I'm a little nervous about going back home. But hopefully it will be okay,' said Bailer."